This Is Why

Military experts have called Iran's ariel attack on Israel on Saturday night 'ambitious' and warn it could push an already fragile region into a dangerous new phase. On the Sky News Daily, host Matt Barbet examines how Iran and Israel's 'shadow war' has moved out into the open, alongside defence and security analyst Michael Clarke. Matt is also joined by Dr Roxane Farmanfarmaian, affiliated lecturer in international relations of the Middle East at the University of Cambridge, to examine what Iran was really trying to achieve from its attack.Producer: Rosie Gillott Podcast Promotions Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Philly Beaumont

On Saturday night Iran launched an unprecedented drone and missile attack against Israel, which Tehran has claimed is in retaliation for an attack on the consular section of the Iranian embassy in Damascus by Israel on 1 April. Some 170 explosive drones, 120 ballistic missiles, and 30 cruise missiles were launched by Iran, according to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), who said "99%" were intercepted. Leaders across the world have condemned the attack and stated their support for Israel’s security. However, Iran's foreign ministry said they would "not hesitate" to take "further defensive measures" to "safeguard its legitimate interests against any military aggressions". On this extra Sky News Daily episode, Rob Powell sits down with our international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn to discuss the significance and implications of Iran’s attack, and the response from Israel and its allies. Producer: Rosie Gillott Editor: Paul Stanworth

Ex-armed forces minister James Heappey has told Sky's defence and security editor Deborah Haynes the UK should consider sending its forces to Ukraine to train troops. On the Sky News Daily, host Tom Cheshire talks to her and Sky's military analyst Professor Michael Clarke about the interview with Mr Heappey, who stepped down from his role last month. They assess the bleak situation in Ukraine and why the conflict is at a critical stage. They also discuss how prepared the UK would be if it faced a war in the near future. Senior producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Wendy Parker

The death of arguably one of America’s most talked about names in the 1990s has re-ignited conversations about who OJ Simpson was and how he will be remembered. The former NFL star was tried and acquitted of the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman. He later spent time in jail for armed robbery and kidnap. On the Daily, Niall Paterson talks to our US correspondent James Matthews as they discuss his life and the controversies surrounding the 76-year-old, who died on Wednesday following his battle with cancer. Producers: Emma Rae Woodhouse, Rosie Gillott, Soila Apparicio Senior producer: Annie Joyce Editors: Paul Stanworth, Wendy Parker

President Biden has stated US support for Israel is 'ironclad' after reports an Iranian attack is imminent. Iran had promised to retaliate after Israel killed a top Iranian commander in Damascus, Syria, earlier this month. It has led to fears the Israel-Gaza war could escalate to a wider Middle East conflict. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu did nothing to allay concerns when he said his forces were preparing for scenarios in other areas. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to our Middle East correspondent Ali Bunkall about how ready Israel is for any attacks by Iran and what its next moves might be. Plus, retired Air Vice-Marshal Sean Bell, who is a military analyst, details Iran's military capabilities and what form an attack by Tehran might take. Producers: Soila Apparicio, Emma Rae Woodhouse Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotions producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John, Iona BrunkerEditor: Wendy Parker

More than 55,000 asylum seekers whose applications have been refused since 2011 may not have left the UK.The analysis of Home Office data does not include partners or children - so could be even higher.On the Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to our communities correspondent Becky Johnson about how delays in deporting failed applicants have led to some people being able to make multiple appeals.In one case, an asylum seeker has been in limbo for 18 years.Also, immigration lawyer Harjap Singh Bhangal talks about why so many appeals against deportation are successful. Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse Assistant producer: Iona BrunkerPodcast Promotions Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

Yemen is in the middle of a humanitarian disaster after nearly a decade of civil war between the Saudi and Western-backed government, and the Iranian-backed Houthi militia. As Sky's special correspondent Alex Crawford has found, war in Gaza is making the situation even worse for Yeminis already facing violence, starvation and disease. On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by Alex and Yemen-born producer Ahmed Baider to explore how Houthi attacks on shipping lanes in the Red Sea, ostensibly in support of Gaza, are preventing aid from getting into Yemen. Senior Producer: Annie Joyce Producer: Rosie GillottAssistant Producer: Iona Brunker Podcast Promotions Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Paul Stanworth

Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner is facing questions about whether she paid enough tax on a house sale, almost a decade ago. She denies any wrongdoing and has been backed by the party's leader Sir Keir Starmer, with some colleagues claiming she's being "smeared". On the Sky News Daily, Mark Austin unpicks exactly what Angela Rayner is accused of and discusses if the allegations are really in the public interest with Sky's political correspondent Rob Powell. They also talk about how important Ms Rayner is to Labour's election ambitions with polling expert Scarlett Maguire. Producers: Soila Apparicio, Emma Rae Woodhouse Promotions producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Paul Stanworth

Next week, millions of people across North America will be able to see a total solar eclipse, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. A total solar eclipse - where the moon moves in front of the sun - happens about every 18 months. However, it rarely takes place over land, so next week's is an incredibly rare opportunity for scientists and amateurs alike to witness the phenomenon.On the Sky News Daily, our data and forensics correspondent Tom Cheshire chats to NASA's deputy administrator and retired astronaut Pam Melroy about why solar eclipses are so important for scientists and learning more about the Earth and our nearest star.In addition, our science and medical correspondent Thomas Moore explains why eclipses happen - and why the vast majority in the UK won't be lucky enough to see it.You can watch our live coverage of the total eclipse on Monday 8th April, 7pm to 10pm, on the Sky News channel, the Sky News app or on our YouTube channel. 👉 Listen above then tap here to follow the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts 👈 Producers: Rosie Gillott & Soila Apparicio Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Podcast Promotions Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Philly Beaumont

Three former Supreme Court justices have warned Prime Minister Rishi Sunak that the UK is breaching international law by continuing to arm Israel. They are among over 600 lawyers and academics who are signatories of a 17-page letter, which also urges ministers to work towards a ceasefire in Gaza and resume funding to the UNRWA aid agency. It comes as civil servants overseeing arms exports could stop work over fears they may be complicit in war crimes. On the Sky News Daily, Tom Cheshire asks Michael Mansfield KC, head of chambers at Nexus Chambers and former judge on the Russell Tribunal on Palestine, about why he has signed the letter. Plus, our political correspondent Rob Powell details the current government's arms dealing with Israel and the response to calls to stop supplying weapons. Senior producer: Annie Joyce Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-CharlesEditor: Philly Beaumont

The UK spends more than £50bn a year - 2.2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) - on defence, but government documents shared with Sky News show the country has no preparations for a nuclear war. In January, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps warned the country is approaching a pre-war era and that in five years' time the UK could be looking at conflicts with Russia, China, Iran and North Korea. So, is the UK ready? On the Sky News Daily, Tom Cheshire is joined by our security and defence editor Deborah Haynes, who has seen documents outlining the UK's preparedness for nuclear war, and asks former soldier and now defence policy expert, Robert Clark, what the military will need to do to prepare for war. Producer: Soila Apparicio Editor: Philly Beaumont

Aid group World Central Kitchen says seven members of its team have been killed in an Israeli strike on Gaza. The charity said the volunteers had just unloaded more than 100 tonnes of humanitarian food aid brought to Gaza by sea. The foreign nationals killed were from the UK, Australia, Poland, and a dual US-Canadian citizen. Israel Defence Forces (IDF) spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari offered "deepest condolences" to the founder of the charity World Central Kitchen over the "tragic" deaths of its aid workers. Aid convoys attempting to reach northern Gaza have either been forced to turn back or simply not made the journey because the risk of being hit by Israeli fire was too great. How will the latest deaths affect the work of aid agencies in the Palestinian territory? On the Sky News Daily, Tom Cheshire explores what working in a 'death zone' in Gaza looks like for volunteers with Ahmed Bayram, media adviser for MENA (Middle East and North Africa) at the Norwegian Refugee Council. Plus, our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall reports on whether the IDF's review of the deaths will be enough to reassure foreign governments and humanitarian organisations. Senior producer: Annie Joyce Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Editor: Philly Beaumont

It’s the height of lockdown, 19-year-old Ellie Williams claims on social media she's been raped and exploited by an Asian grooming gang across the north of England. Photos of her alleged injuries add to the outrage and the post goes viral - shared more than 100,000 times. Social media rumours lead to attacks on Asian men and businesses in her hometown of Barrow-in-Furness. But when she's arrested for perverting the course of justice, things really explode and there are protest rallies and claims of a cover-up. At her trial, the prosecution say she lied, faked text messages and even caused the catalogue of injuries to herself. In season 6 of StoryCast, Sky News' Jason Farrell and Liz Lane, who reported on the case at the time, return to Barrow to investigate what could have led her to make these claims and if, underneath it all, there is some other truth buried among the lies. With access to her family, police investigators and those most impacted by her allegations, we ask: Is Ellie Williams a villain - or a victim of something else? And what happened after the trial - once all the media attention died down and new allegations began to emerge? This is episode one of Unreliable Witness. For the full season, follow Unreliable Witness wherever you get your podcasts.

The amount of raw sewage being spilled into England’s waterways has hit a record high – more than doubling since last year. Water companies are allowed to do this, but only in exceptional circumstances to prevent sewage washing back up into our homes. But, there’s growing evidence sewage is being routinely dumped by water firms when it’s not needed, polluting England’s waters more to the point where rowers in this year’s Oxford and Cambridge boat race have been warned not to go into the Thames. Customers could end up paying more too – as water companies in England and Wales want bills to increase to fund the necessary infrastructure upgrades. On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Leah Boleto is joined by climate reporter Victoria Seabrook and business correspondent Paul Kelso to explain how England’s rivers and seas have got to this state and what this could mean for our water bills. Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Paul Stanworth

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a cargo ship leaving the US city of Baltimore catastrophically struck a major bridge. The entire middle section of the 1.6-mile-long Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River. The ship lost power as it left the port, but the crew had enough time to make a mayday call so officials on the bridge were able to shut it to most traffic. Two people were rescued from the water but several people are still missing. There are now questions about how such a large vessel lost control and how the huge structure of the bridge crumbled so quickly. On today's edition of the Sky News Daily, Leah Boleto speaks to our US Correspondent Martha Kelner in Baltimore and our Science Correspondent Thomas More. Plus, Ben Schafer, a structural engineer at Baltimore's Johns Hopkins University explains why the bridge fell so quickly. Senior producer: Annie Joyce Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Wendy Parker

Four men have been charged with carrying out an attack at a concert in Moscow on Friday that killed more than 130 people. They all appeared in court on Monday heavily bruised with swollen faces and black eyes – with one attending in a wheelchair wearing a hospital gown. The Islamic State group said it carried out the attack on the Crocus City Hall, but President Putin has insisted Ukraine was involved. President Zelenskyy has strongly denied the claims and hit out at the Russian leader and others in Moscow, describing them as “scum”. Questions are now mounting for President Putin as it emerged the US government warned Russia two weeks ago that an attack by extremists on “large gatherings including concerts” was imminent. On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Leah Boleto is joined by international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn and international correspondent in Moscow Diana Magnay to discuss the mood in the Russian capital and how President Putin could react.Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Paul Stanworth

The US has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the first time as secretary of state Antony Blinken lands in Tel Aviv for talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. An American-sponsored resolution demanding a truce was rejected by the UN Security Council. The US policy change comes amid fears the Palestinian territory could be on the brink of famine. On the Daily, Niall Paterson talks to our Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall about how much US support for Israel is wavering. Plus, Sky’s special correspondent Alex Crawford discusses the importance of being able to report freely from inside Gaza - something she and other foreign journalists have been unable to do since Hamas's attack on southern Israel on 7 October. The war has meant images and information from inside Gaza have mostly come from a few Palestinian journalists in the territory. Foreign journalists can only report in Gaza while accompanied by Israeli authorities, who say it is for safety reasons. Senior producer: Annie Joyce Producer: Alex Edden and Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Wendy Parker

The Princess of Wales has issued a personal message revealing that she has been diagnosed with cancerfollowing her abdominal surgery earlier this year and that she is undergoing preventative chemotherapy.The news comes after many weeks of speculation about the health of the 42-year-old future queen, who has not been seen on official duties since Christmas.On the Sky News Daily, Jonathan Samuels is joined by our Royal Correspondent, Rhiannon Mills to discuss how this news will impact the Royal Family and when we can expect to see Catherine resume full duties.Producer: Rosie GillottEditor: Wendy Parker

Thousands of women should get payouts because of the way changes to the state pension affected them, according to a watchdog.The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) said the women who were born in the 1950s didn't get their pension when they expected because they didn't know about the reforms. The PHSO report added that they are "owed" money by the Department for Work and Pensions. It criticised the department, claiming it has "clearly indicated that it will refuse to comply... this is unacceptable". On this episode, Niall Paterson explains why the pension reforms were pushed through quicker than initially planned by the then coalition government and discusses the proposals for compensation and whether the payouts are likely to happen. He's joined by Sky correspondent Shamaan Freeman-Powell and one of the Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) campaigners, Michele Carlile. Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Editor: Paul Stanworth

The resignation of Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar has come as a shock. He suffered defeats in two referendums earlier this month, where the public voted against the government's plans to remove "sexist" language from the constitution.On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by Ireland correspondent Stephen Murphy to look at Varadkar's legacy as both the youngest and openly gay Taoiseach.Plus, in Wales, history has also been made as Vaughan Gething was sworn in as first minister - the first black leader of a European country. He narrowly won the Welsh Labour leadership election against Jeremy Miles, with 51.7% of the vote. Questions over some of his campaign donations from a company run by a man twice convicted for environmental offences, and Conservative criticism over Welsh Labour's budget spending, give Gething plenty to defend and tackle in his first weeks in office. Niall explores what's in the new Welsh first minister's in-tray with Tomos Evans, our Wales reporter. Richard Wyn Jones, director of the Wales Governance Centre and dean of public affairs at Cardiff University, also talks about Mr Gething.Producer: Rosie Gillott Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Editor: Wendy Parker

More than half of people in the UK have seen online conspiracy theories about why the Princess of Wales has been absent from public life, but it hasn't dented trust in the Royal Family, according to Sky News polling. Speculation on social media about Kate's health and whereabouts have been rife in recent days – despite Kensington Palace announcing she would be recovering from abdominal surgery until Easter – and suspicion has now spread from edited photos including the princess to photos of other members of the Royal Family. So how has their brush with TikTok conspiracists impacted the royals and does the palace need to rethink its public relations strategy in the age of social media? On the Sky News Daily podcast, Niall Paterson speaks to our royal correspondent, Rhiannon Mills, who has spent the day with Prince William in Sheffield, and to the late Queen's former communications secretary, Simon Lewis, about why he believes time is on the palace's side. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Rosie Gillott Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Philly Beaumont

A new Sky News series 'Faultlines' covers in-depth and immersive reports exploring contemporary social challenges across the UK. This episode asks 'is our housing market in crisis?', with not enough homes and expensive rentals forcing an increasing number of people into homelessness. In 2021/22, just 7,528 new social homes were delivered. Nowhere near enough for the 1.1 million people on the waiting list and the government’s target of building 300,000 new homes a year. The seaside town Hastings is on the frontline of all that is wrong with the housing system, with evictions, social housing shortages and Airbnb among the issues behind the problem. On this episode of the Sky News Daily, Tom Cheshire talks to our people and politics correspondent Nick Martin in Hastings, to uncover the scale of the problems, and hear from those at the heart of it. Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Paul Stanworth

As Russians go to the polls, the outcome is certainly already written as Vladimir Putin runs pretty much uncontested in his bid for a fifth term in office. Opposition candidates were banned from standing, fled the country or are dead - like Putin's most prominent critic, Alexei Navalny. So, what will another six years of rule mean for Russians, the war in Ukraine and the world? On the Daily, Sky's Tom Cheshire looks at Putin's grip on power over the years as he's joined by our international correspondent Diana Magnay, who spent the past six years reporting from Moscow for us. Plus, Tom talks to former British spy Christopher Steele - who previously ran MI6's Russia desk - about what challenges to Putin there could be. Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Senior podcast producer: Annie JoyceEditor: Wendy Parker

In the early months of the Iraq war in 2003, around 88 British troops were deployed to the Qarmat Ali water treatment plant to provide round-the-clock security. What the soldiers didn't know was that while on duty, they were being exposed to a carcinogenic chemical used to maintain the pipes in the plant.Ten ex-soldiers have now spoken out for the first time after suffering a range of health problems, including daily nosebleeds, a brain tumour and several diagnoses of cancer.Today on the Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Sky's Michael Drummond about his report into why the former troops are still seeking reparations, and to ex-RAF sergeant Andy Tosh who was exposed to the chemical and says his health has been permanently damaged.Plus, we'll get the latest from deputy political editor Sam Coates on the government's new definition of 'extremism'.Senior producer: Annie JoyceProducer: Sydney Pead Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-CharlesPromotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa JohnEditor: Wendy Parker

The prime minister has resisted calls to hand back £10m donated to the Conservative Party by businessman Frank Hester. Speaking in the Commons, Rishi Sunak condemned Mr Hester's reported remarks about MP Diane Abbott as "racist" and "wrong" but insisted he had shown "remorse". Labour is calling on the Conservatives to give the money back. Today on the Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Labour MP Dawn Butler and Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates about the matter. Plus, Sky correspondent Amelia Harper takes us through her report uncovering a WhatsApp network of children who are filming themselves killing and torturing animals. Warning: this episode contains references to animal cruelty Producer: Soila Apparacio and Sydney PeadAssistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Philly Beaumont

After Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the imposition of sanctions on the country meant direct exports of British-made luxury vehicles fell to zero.However, Sky News analysis shows that hundreds of millions of pounds worth of luxury cars are being sold to Russia through neighbouring countries. Notably, Azerbaijan on Russia's southern border, where Britain recorded an unprecedented increase in car exports. In turn, Azerbaijan reported an unprecedented increase in car exports to Russia. Niall Paterson is joined by our economics and data editor Ed Conway on the Sky News Daily, to explain why luxury vehicles are still finding their way into Russia, and what can be done about it. Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Philly Beaumont

The Princess of Wales has apologised "for any confusion" after she admitted "editing" a Mother's Day image of her and her children. Major international picture agencies told media outlets to "kill" the photo from their systems 12 hours after the picture was released by Kensington Palace on Sunday. AP told Sky News the photo broke their manipulation rules as it shows an "inconsistency in the alignment of Princess Charlotte's left hand". Kill notices are uncommon and usually due to issues with copyright or journalistic process – and this has never happened to a royal picture. On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Sarah-Jane Mee speaks to Adam Parker from our data and forensics unit, who reveals what the team have learned after analysing the photo’s metadata. Plus, PR expert Mark Borkowski on whether this has fanned rather than extinguished online rumours, and our Royal Correspondent Rhiannon Mills on where this leaves the royal family. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

The biggest night in Hollywood promised glitz and glamour, but there were no surprises when it came to the big Academy Award winners.Oppenheimer took home seven awards, including best picture, best actor and best director for Britain’s Christopher Nolan, with Emma Stone winning best actress for her role in Poor Things. Sky News Arts and Entertainment correspondent Katie Spencer and Arts and Entertainment editor Claire Gregory were on the Vanity Fair red carpet for some celeb-spotting, with all details from this year’s Oscars. Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Paul Stanworth

Freddie Scappaticci was Britain's most highly prized IRA informant. His codename was 'Stakeknife' and the unit he led - ironically in charge of hunting informants like him - was called the 'nutting squad' as it shot people in the head after abducting and torturing them. Scappaticci never faced trial and lived under witness protection in England until his death last year, aged 77. Now, a seven-year investigation has concluded his actions probably resulted in "more lives being lost than saved", with the UK government being urged to acknowledge that many murders were avoidable and to apologise to bereaved families. On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson examines what we know about the British mole and gets reaction to the Operation Kenova report with our senior Ireland correspondent David Blevins.Podcast producer: Sydney Pead Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jonathan Day Senior producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Wendy Parker

After cutting national insurance for the second time in yesterday's Budget, the prime minister has said it's his "long-term ambition" to eventually scrap the tax.As only those in work pay it, it's seen by many – including the Chancellor - as an unfair double tax on those in the workforce. But, completely abolishing it would cost the government £46bn.Labour have criticised the plans, saying the move would cost more than the cuts unveiled in Liz Truss' chaotic mini-budget and the director of the Institute of Fiscal Studies called it unrealistic.On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by Greg Thwaites from the Resolution Foundation and Linda Yueh, broadcaster and economist, to explore how realistic scrapping NI would be and why it's so tricky to simplify the tax system.And, political editor Beth Rigby pops in to discuss how this idea is playing out politically. Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

It was a budget of few surprises. As promised, the chancellor cut the rate of National Insurance tax by 2p in every pound but admits the overall tax burden is still higher than it has been in the last 70 years. The cuts have been labelled "Tory con" by Labour, which leaves people paying "more for less".On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by data and economics editor Ed Conway to break down the changes in tax and childcare, and if the chancellor's plan will help the economy.Plus, hear from political editor Beth Rigby about whether the budget can save the Tories from election defeat.Jeremy Hunt has delivered his last spring budget before a general election, hoping to revive the UK economy and his party's hopes of re-election.Producers: Soila Apparicio and Sydney PeadAssistant producer: Iona Brunker Promotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Paul Stanworth

For most of us, our council tax bills are going up - with nearly every local authority in the country increasing it by the maximum amount. Nottingham City Council is the latest to declare itself bankrupt and has already approved huge cuts. Today, councillors in Birmingham consider whether to do the same.On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined from Birmingham by Midlands correspondent Becky Cotterill and local campaigner Shuranjeet Singh to look at what's gone wrong in the city and how it's affecting residents. Plus, Jessica Studdert from the thinktank New Local discusses why so many councils are struggling with their finances.Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion Producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

As the country gears up for the general election, Wednesday's budget may be the last before the voters go to the polls. Hailed as "a budget to save the Tory party", speculation has been mounting that the chancellor will cut taxes as a last-ditch attempt to boost the Conservatives' plunging support. To afford the move, funding to public services could be slashed - but Jeremy Hunt has insisted any cuts will be done "responsibly". On today's episode, Sophy Ridge looks ahead to the budget. She's joined by deputy political editor Sam Coates and pollster Scarlett Maguire to unpack whether cutting taxes really is the way to a Conservative election win. Producer: Soila Apparicio Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

Today, something different – we're bringing you the first episode of an exciting new podcast from Sky called Electoral Dysfunction.Beth Rigby. Jess Philips. Ruth Davidson.With polls suggesting trust in politicians is low, three political powerhouses unite to unravel the spin and explain what’s really going on in Westminster and beyond.Every week, they will examine our political leaders and their policies – how they’re written, and how they’re sold to voters – as we prepare for a general election. With so much at stake, they will work out which politicians are coming out on top and who is having an Electoral Dysfunction – and what it all actually means for you.Here's the first epsiode. For more, follow Electoral Dysfunction now wherever you listen to podcasts.Warning: some explicit language.

In a national address, Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to use nuclear weapons if NATO countries were to join a ground offensive in Ukraine.The suggestion of NATO forces was made by France's President Emmanuel Macron but quickly dismissed by the US, Britain, and Germany.However, it comes amid calls to show more strength against the Kremlin from Baltic leaders, as Russian troops ramp up military operations along land and sea borders in the region.Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are now bolstering their civilian armies and have urged other NATO countries, including the UK, to do the same. Today on the Daily, Anna Jones speaks to Sky's international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn to unpack what Mr Putin said in his latest speech. She also speaks to security and defence editor Deborah Haynes about how Russia's neighbours are readying themselves for battle. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producer: Evan Dale Podcast promotion producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

Ecuador has become the deadliest country in South America with drug gangs and their Mexican cartel bosses murdering people, detonating car bombs and terrorising communities. The violence exploded earlier this year with gangs promising insurrection after the president of Ecuador put in place a nationwide crackdown following the escape of a drug lord from prison, and armed attack on a TV station. On this edition of Sky News Daily, Tom Cheshire speaks to our chief correspondent Stuart Ramsay, who has had rare access to a prison in the coastal city of Esmeraldas, as the government tries to get a handle on the violence that's taken over Ecuador. Producer: Sydney Pead Assistant producers: Iona Brunker, Evan Dale Promotion Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

It's been years since the extent of the Post Office Horizon scandal became clear - but hundreds of sub-postmasters, who were falsely convicted of fraud or financially crippled in the process, are still waiting for financial redress.Today, key players in the scandal - including former sub-postmaster Alan Bates and recently ousted chairman Henry Staunton - gave evidence to MPs about the government's compensation scheme - and why it's taken so long to pay it.But proceedings were somewhat overshadowed by an unexpected revelation by Mr Staunton. When asked about the investigation into his behaviour while at the Post Office, he claimed the main investigation was actually into current CEO Nick Read.On the Sky News Daily, Sophy Ridge is joined by business correspondent Paul Kelso to discuss the drama unfolding at the Post Office, and Labour MP Ian Lavery who's on the committee looking into the major miscarriage of justice. Producers: Alex Edden, Sydney PeadAssistant producers: Iona Brunker, Evan DalePromotion Producer: David ChipakupakuSenior producer: Annie JoyceEditor: Wendy Parker

The former Tory deputy chair, Lee Anderson, has refused to apologise for comments that saw him suspended from the party.He said he believed "Islamists" had "got control" of London's mayor Sadiq Khan - a remark Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called "unacceptable".But Mr Anderson isn't the only politician stoking racial divides, with Azhar Ali standing in this week's Rochdale by-election despite making antisemitic remarks that cost him Labour's backing.The tensions have left many MPs fearing for their personal safety as security has had to be ramped up for several of them.On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Jonathan Samuels speaks to deputy political editor Sam Coates about the toxicity in politics.Plus, Anna Firth, the Conservative MP for Southend West - where the late MP Sir David Amess was killed by an Islamic State sympathiser - describes what it's like to be a member of parliament in the current political climate.Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Wendy ParkerPromotion producer: David Chipakupaku

Two years on from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the war is largely at a stalemate but President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's troops face acute shortages of ammunition.Ukraine's cities still come under regular Russian bombardment, thousands of lives have been lost and many more displaced across Europe. Around 300,000 Ukrainians have applied for visas to come to the UK alone. Many more are in Poland and Germany. Tom Cheshire speaks to international correspondent John Sparks in Kharkiv about what life is like on the ground in Ukraine now and how Ukrainians are ready to continue the fight for their country. And we hear from Anfisa Vlasova who fled Kharkiv after the invasion to come to the UK on what life has been like here and how she and her fellow Ukrainian refugees feel about returning to their homeland. Senior producer: Annie Joyce Assistant producer: Iona BrunkerPromotion producer: David Chipakupaku Editor: Wendy Parker

The third largest party in the House of Commons, the SNP, says it doesn't have confidence in its Speaker, Lindsay Hoyle. The Speaker himself says he took decisions about how MPs debated and voted on calls for a ceasefire in Gaza because he wanted as broad a discussion as possible. He's apologised but said the safety of MPs on such a divisive issue was also on his mind. With thousands dead in Gaza and war continuing, the optics of MPs rowing about Commons procedure - rather than debating important international issues - have not sat well with everyone. Niall Paterson speaks to Dr Hannah White from the Institute for Government about why she thinks it's another example supporting the case for parliamentary reform. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood describes it as his "worst day in Parliament". He recently had dozens of anti-Israel protesters gather outside his home. And chief political correspondent Jon Craig picks over how the chamber moves on from this - and whether Lindsay Hoyle will stay in his job. Producers: Soila Apparicio, Alex Edden Assistant producer: Evan Dale Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Editor: Paul Stanworth

The former chair of the Post Office, Henry Staunton, who was dismissed last month, claims he was told by a top civil servant to "hobble into the election" and delay payouts to sub-postmasters, in a newly released memo. But Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch told MPs there's "no evidence whatsoever that this is true", and called his allegations "a disgrace". The row comes as only 5% of sub-postmaster claimants have received compensation for the Horizon IT scandal so far.Late on Wednesday evening, the government published a letter from Sarah Munby, the former permanent secretary to Kemi Badenoch, responding to claims in The Times that government officials told Mr Staunton to stall on compensation payments to wronged postmasters. The letter stated: "It is not true that I made any instruction, either explicitly or implicitly, to Mr Staunton to in anyway delay compensation payments. I did not."On this edition of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Labour MP and chair of the Business and Trade Committee, Liam Byrne, who says it's now his job at next Tuesday's committee to "flush out who is telling the truth".Plus, our deputy political editor Sam Coates discusses the fallout from the row. Podcast producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Evan Dale Promotions producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

One of the world's most prolific cyber crime gangs has been taken down by law enforcement agencies including the FBI, Europol and the UK's National Crime Agency.Lockbit is an extortion website that held its victims' data for ransom - some of the biggest UK bodies affected were the Royal Mail and the NHS.Five Russians have been charged by US authorities and dozens of crypto accounts frozen.On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson is joined by science and technology editor Tom Clarke and crime correspondent Martin Brunt to discuss what Lockbit is, Operation Cronos and what this means for other cyber gangs.Senior podcast producer: Annie JoycePromotions Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa JohnEditor: Wendy Parker

Hundreds of Russians have been detained at memorials to opposition politician Alexei Navalny. Navalny's mother and lawyers have been denied access to his body and authorities have not confirmed its exact whereabouts. Host Adam Parsons is joined by Sky News' Moscow correspondent, Diana Magnay, who has followed Navalny's journey for much of the past decade. She describes what’s happening in Russia, Navalny's legacy and the mood as people continue to pay their respects at makeshift memorials across the country. Adam also hears from Ekaterina Schulmann, a Russian political scientist in exile who has been marked as a foreign agent by Putin's government. Plus, Dr Maxim Alyukov, a political sociologist at King's College London, talks about the upcoming Russian election.Podcast Producer: Emma Rae Woodhouse and Alex Edden Assistant Producer: Evan Dale Interviews Producer: Melissa Tutesigensi Promotions Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Philly Beaumont

Alexei Navalny, the most prominent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has died in jail. Barred in 2018 from running in elections, he remained Mr Putin's most powerful political opponent. He survived a novichok poisoning, after being treated in Germany. But still he chose to return to Russia knowing he would be arrested. He was just 47 when he died while serving a 19-year sentence on charges of extremism in a prison near the Arctic circle. Today on Sky News Daily, Leah Boleto speaks with our Moscow correspondent Diana Magnay about Mr Navalny's life and how his death will have an impact on his supporters in Russia. We'll also unpack Labour's win in two by-elections overnight with our political correspondent Rob Powell who is in Wellingborough, and what the results could mean for the next general election.Producers: Soila Apparicio, Sydney Pead Assistant Producer: Evan Dale Editor: Wendy Parker

Sky News’ economics and data editor Ed Conway looks at the implications of Britain entering recession on this episode. Although the two quarters of negative growth is a fairly arbitrary definition and could be revised, Ed tells host Greg Milam why the GDP per head figures is the one which could tell us more. They also discuss the political implications for Rishi Sunak who’d made growing the economy one of his big five pledges. Plus, Manchester restaurant owner Karina Jadhav on what recession means for her business. Producer: Alex Edden Assistant producers: Evan Dale, Iona Brunker Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotions producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Paul Stanworth

In his early weeks as Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer said: “It was very important to me to seek to address the disgrace of antisemitism in our party as soon as possible.” Almost four years on, and months out from a general election, he’s facing a new row about the extent of antisemitism within Labour. Three of his party’s politicians, including two who were standing for parliament, are now linked to a meeting of activists where it’s claimed antisemitic remarks were made. On this episode of the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson speaks to Alex Hearn, director of Labour Against Antisemitism, who says this week has been embarrassing for the Labour leader – who put tackling antisemitism at the centre of his political strategy. Plus, our political correspondent Serena Barker-Singh looks at how the party is trying to show its diligence in picking parliamentary candidates.A full list of the candidates standing in the Rochdale by-election can be found here. This episode contains strong language. Producers: Soila Apparicio, Alex EddenInterviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles Promotions producer: Jonathan Day Editor: Paul Stanworth

Labour is no longer backing a candidate in the Rochdale by-election. Party spokespeople had been out to bat for local councillor Azhar Ali up until Monday afternoon - saying his comments about the Hamas attacks on Israel were informed by an online conspiracy theory and "didn't represent his view". By Monday evening, the full recording of his comments came to light - and Labour backtracked, saying he'd be on the ballot paper but no longer had its support. Sky's chief political correspondent Jon Craig reckons it's Sir Keir Starmer's "biggest crisis yet" - he joins Leah Boleto to explain why.And Leah speaks to marketing expert Catherine Shuttleworth about The Body Shop entering administration. They explore where it went wrong for the chain – and there's a bit of reminiscing about white musk and dewberry oil too. A full list of the candidates standing in the Rochdale byelection can be found here.Producers: Emma Rae Woodhouse and Alex EddenAssistant Producer: Iona BrunkerPromotions Producer: Jada-Kai Meosa John Editor: Paul Stanworth

The UK says Israel should "stop and think seriously", the US wants to see a credible plan for civilians - but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists an offensive in Rafah is needed to defeat Hamas.As Israel rescued two hostages in the southern city, dozens were killed in the airstrikes that accompanied the operation.There are now more than a million people in the city - with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees saying conditions are getting worse.So can Israel be convinced to pause any ground offensive?On this Sky News Daily, Leah Boleto speaks to our correspondent in Jerusalem, Diana Magnay, and defence and security analyst Professor Michael Clarke.Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Editor: Paul Stanworth

A new report has suggested the state retirement age may need to rise to 71 to maintain the number of people who financially support the pension system - and it adds that it might need to happen as soon as 2040. On this Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson explores what effect this would have with pensions expert and Conservative peer, Baroness Ros Altmann. Plus, economist and co-author of The 100-Year Life, Andrew Scott, discusses why our outlook on retirement might need to change sooner than we think. Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce Podcast producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona BrunkerPromotion producer: Jonathan DayEditor: Wendy Parker

Joe Biden couldn't remember when he was vice president, according to a new report. And, according to the same investigation, he couldn't remember when his son died. Then, when trying to reassure everyone about the claims about his memory, he confused the presidents of Mexico and Egypt. Not ideal for someone who wants to run for president - and even worse for someone already doing the job. So what has the speculation done for his election chances this year - and for those of his rival, Donald Trump? Yalda Hakim presents this Sky News Daily with political strategist Hilary Rosen and pollster Scarlett Maguire. Senior podcast producer: Annie JoycePodcast producer: Alex Edden Assistant producer: Iona Brunker Editor: Wendy Parker